The G1 Dubai Sheema Classic is a potential March target for G1 St Leger second Berkshire Rocco (Fr) (Sir Percy {GB}) according to trainer Andrew Balding. Since taking the Listed Noel Murless S. in October, the colt returned to be the runner-up in the H H the Amir Trophy in Qatar on Feb. 20.
“He ran a smashing race,” said Balding. “It was his first run for a while, and he's entitled to come on for that. All being well, he might head towards Meydan for the Sheema Classic. He's effective at a mile and a half and further, and is just a great horse to have in the yard.”
Stablemate Spanish Mission (Noble Mission {GB}) is also a possible candidate for the Dubai World Cup meeting on Mar. 27. the 2020 G2 Doncaster Cup S. winner was last seen running second in the Red Sea Turf H. at Riyadh.
“He ran with great credit and he too might end up going to Dubai for the [G2] Dubai Gold Cup,” said Balding.
The third Balding trainee, Bangkok (Ire) (Australia {GB}) a Group 3 winner earlier in his career and a winner of the Listed Winter Derby Trial S. two back, was eighth in the Feb. 20 $20-million Saudi Cup. The bay is set for start in the Apr. 2 All-Weather Championship Finals at Lingfield.
“He's probably not quite as good as the others, which is obvious, but he won some really good prize-money and is back here and bouncing,” said Balding. “There were great rewards up for grabs, and that was the main reason we ran. The rewards were there as long as he could finish in the first 10, and he did that and has done us proud. He will more than likely head to Lingfield for Good Friday.”
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